What is Autoflowering?
Autoflowering cannabis plants are plants that automatically enter the flowering stage—just as the name suggests.
Most cannabis plants depend on a specific amount of light per day to start flowering. Autoflowers, however, bloom automatically after a fixed period, regardless of the light cycle.
This makes them particularly popular among both beginner and experienced growers. In this article, you will learn how autoflowering works, what its benefits are, and whether these plants are suitable for your grow.
How is Autoflowering Made?
Budder is a concentrate produced by refining cannabis extracts and then whipping them, which creates a smooth, buttery consistency. It contains a high percentage of THC (or CBD), typically between 70% and 90%, making it highly potent.
Budder is made by heating and refining cannabis using a solvent, such as butane or CO2. The whipping process gives it its distinctive texture.
How Does Autoflowering Work?
Autoflowering cannabis was developed by crossing regular cannabis plants with Cannabis Ruderalis. This species grows in cold and dark climates. To ensure survival, the plant has adapted to bloom independently of the light cycle.
Thanks to this genetic trait, autoflowers automatically enter the flowering stage within 2 to 4 weeks after germination, regardless of how much light they receive. This means growers don’t have to worry about changing light schedules to trigger flowering.
What Are the Benefits of Autoflowering?
Autoflowering plants offer several advantages, including:
- Fast growth cycle – Most autoflowers are ready for harvest within 8 to 12 weeks.
- Independent of light schedules – They flower automatically, without requiring light cycle adjustments.
- Compact size – Autoflowers tend to stay small, making them ideal for discreet growing in limited spaces.
- Resistance to cold and diseases – Thanks to Ruderalis genetics, they are more robust and better suited to harsh conditions.
However, autoflowers also have some downsides. Their small size and short lifespan result in smaller yields. You’ll typically harvest around 80 to 180 grams per plant on average.
Additionally, some strains have lower THC levels, and poor-quality clones are on the market. Be sure to choose high-quality seeds to ensure a successful grow.
When Should You Choose Autoflowering?
Autoflowering cannabis is perfect for growers looking for a fast and easy cultivation process without complicated light schedules. They are ideal for beginners due to their low maintenance, but also for experienced growers who want multiple harvests per year.
While autoflowers generally produce smaller yields than photoperiod plants, their speed, simplicity, and resilience make them a popular choice.
Want to learn more about cannabis strains and cultivation techniques? Explore it all in our Wiki.